Local Governments

The Internet is a critical resource for today’s local governments and the people they serve—and a primary channel for information sharing. You can play an essential role in ensuring that this digital resource remains safe and secure for everyone.

A great place to start is by participating in National Cyber Security Awareness Month, held in October 2012. Even if you have just one hour to devote to this nationwide observance or decide to make a larger time commitment, you’ll be sure to find at least one activity from the list below that can make a big difference!

What You Can Do…

…in less than One Hour:

• Email the National Cyber Security Awareness Month (NCSAM) poster to administrators at all government agencies and encourage them to display the posters in public places (e.g., government offices, community centers, libraries, police stations) by October 1, 2012 to help promote the month and cybersecurity. (Download the NCSAM poster at http://www.staysafeonline.org/ncsam/promote-ncsam.)

• Email all government leadership (council members, agency administrators, police chief, etc.) and key personnel about National Cyber Security Awareness Month and encourage them to integrate messages about “our shared responsibility” in maintaining cybersecurity in their written communications, blogs, and presentations during October. (For more resources, visit http://www.staysafeonline.org/ncsam/about/ .)

…in less than One Day:

• Show your cybersecurity leadership by becoming an NCSAM Champion.  (Sign up at http://www.staysafeonline.org/ncsam/champions/.)

• Include cybersecurity as an agenda item in an upcoming staff or council meeting. (Find resources at http://www.staysafeonline.org/stay-safe-online/.)

…in less than One Week:

• Launch a jurisdiction-wide awareness campaign, by (1) using your social media vehicles (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, YouTube accounts, and blogs) to promote National Cyber Security Awareness Month, (2) posting information and banners on your town/city/county website, and (3) encouraging your entire community to “like” the STOP. THINK. CONNECT. campaign at www.facebook.com/stopthinkconnect to ensure that you get the latest cybersecurity announcements and news. (Find resources at http://www.staysafeonline.org/ncsam/get-involved/social-media.)

• Ask your highest elected official to issue a formal proclamation in support of National Cyber Security Awareness Month, observed nationwide in October 2012. Hold a public event for the proclamation signing and invite the local media.

…in less than One Month:

• Hold a cybersecurity in-service training for agency personnel during the month of October and have your IT personnel give presentations on smart computer practices and online security measures. Distribute tools and tips available from the National Cyber Security Alliance. (Find resources at http://www.staysafeonline.org/stay-safe-online/.)

• Develop a local task force to make your community more cyber secure. Check out the Cyber Community Coalition Building Guide (http://www.staysafeonline.org/teach-online-safety/in-the-community/cyber-community-guide), Washtenaw County Cyber Citizenship Coalition (http://washtenawcybercoalition.org) and ESET’s Securing Our eCity (http://securingourecity.org) for inspiration.  

…All Year Round:

• Work with the local school board, department of education, and parents to ensure that the school curriculum is teaching young people to use technology safely, securely, ethically, and productively. (Learn more at http://www.staysafeonline.org/in-the-classroom/ncsa’s-national-k-12-studies.)

• Hold a discussion with the employers in your community about their needs for a well-trained workforce and cybersecurity professionals.

• Work with your IT department to make sure your agency’s cybersecurity is in top shape.
  • Review and update the acceptable use policy for all technology (computers, mobile devices, networks, and personal devices) being used by employees on the job.
  • Have a plan in place in case of a data loss or breach.
  • Have all network users change their password during the month.
  • Conduct annual cybersecurity training and presentations for all online employees.